Weekend Sport with Jason Pine

Among the potential bits of history to be made in tomorrow night's massive Rugby Championship match in Auckland is a milestone that's gone somewhat under the radar.  Loose forward Ardie Savea is set to bring up his 100th test in a game at Eden Park where the All Blacks' impressive unbeaten run is set to be threatened by the Springboks.  Ardie Savea debuted in June 2016, coming off the bench in a 39-21 win over Wales at Eden Park  Chris Boyd gave Ardie Savea his Wellington debut in 2012 and coached him there until 2014, and then as coach of the Hurricanes between 2015 and 2018. He joined Piney to discuss Savea’s incredible career.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two great sporting rivals are squaring off once again.  The Springboks are aiming to breach the Fortress and bring an end to the All Blacks over 30 year undefeated streak at Eden Park.  It all kicks off tonight and so Piney caught up with former Springboks captain Bobby Skinstad to preview the test, getting his thoughts on if the South African side will be able to break that streak.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Weekend Sport with Jason Pine Full Show Podcast for 6th September 2025, Piney is at the Kingslander right by Eden Park building up for the biggest test of the year. Sean Fitzpatrick and Bobby Skinstad preview the massive occasion.  Ardie Savea's first professional coach Chris Boyd celebrates Savea reaching 100 tests.  And Chris Wood joins the show after a tough loss in the Soccer ashes for the All Whites.  Get the Weekend Sport with Jason Pine Full Show Podcast every Saturday and Sunday afternoon on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former All Blacks captain Sean Fitzpatrick is adamant the Eden Park 50-match unbeaten streak will heap pressure on South Africa —rather than New Zealand— in tonight's Rugby Championship test.  The Springboks will attempt to become the first team since France in 1994 to win at the Auckland arena, having beaten the All Blacks the last four tests in a row.  Fitzpatrick says he'd dread playing at South Africa's fortress, Ellis Park.  “[The Springboks are] all saying, “we love going to Eden Park”, they don’t love going to Eden Park,” he told Piney.  “Because that’s our home, that’s where we’re successful.”  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen to the Weekend Sport with Jason Pine Full Show Podcast for Sunday 31 August. Get the Weekend Sport with Jason Pine Full Show Podcast every Saturday and Sunday afternoon on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

James McOnie from The Crowd Goes Wild joined Piney to discuss rugby in all forms. From the upcoming All Blacks vs Springboks game, to the grass-roots local games happening around New Zealand. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Victorian football club Heidelberg United have knocked Auckland FC out of the Australia cup after a 2-0 result.  Heidelberg United continue their winning streak against big A-league names, with this victory marking their third in a row.  Auckland FC coach Steve Corica joins Jason Pine to break down what went wrong, and what needs fixing following their knockout from the cup.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Manchester United have had a shaky start to the new season of the English Premier League.   With a loss to Arsenal, a draw with Fulham, a narrow victory over Burnley and a humiliating defeat by League 2 side Grimsby, the team look set to repeat their 15th place finish from last season.  Stretford Paddock host and ManU fan Jay Motty told Piney that, ‘It's just a relief that we've got those 3 points.’  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former rugby player Shane Christie passed away earlier this week, and the international rugby community is in mourning.   Former Welsh Rugby player and co-founder of Head for Change Alix Popham said he was angry at the Players Association CEO Rob Nichol for downplaying the severity of CTE in Rugby in the build up to Christie's passing.  ‘[Rob Nichol] is supposed to be there to look after the players, not gaslighting this situation and downplaying the seriousness of it’  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A potential remedy to one of the All Blacks' Achilles heels in 20-25 is back on the rugby field this weekend.  Wing Caleb Clark returns for Auckland in their NPC match away to champions Wellington, after seven weeks out.  He’s keen to return to the fold as soon as possible, joining Piney to discuss his recovery, his year so far, and his hopes of soon donning the black jersey.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Weekend Sport with Jason Pine Full Show Podcast for 30th August 2025, the Warriors have suffered defeat at the hands of the Parramatta Eels in controversial fashion. The loss leaves their top 4 hopes up in the air – Warriors CEO Cam George joining the show to offer his thoughts on the result.  We're only a week away from one of the biggest tests Eden Park’s seen in years, with the All Blacks set to host the Springboks. ‘Boks icon Breyton Paulse joined the show to discuss the clash.  And Para Climber Rachel Māia shares her incredible story  Get the Weekend Sport with Jason Pine Full Show Podcast every Saturday and Sunday afternoon on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Whanganui amputee is set to compete in the Para Climbing World Championships in Seoul, Korea next month.  Rachel Māia sustained her injury while climbing at the age of 16, and opted to have it amputated in 2018.   She has won a world bronze before at the World Championships and her sport has been accepted on to the programme for the first time for the LA28 Paralympic Games.  She joined Piney to share her incredible story.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Auckland FC and Christchurch United have been named among the eight preferred clubs for the inaugural OFC Professional League.  The venture, which is being backed by millions of dollars from Fifa, is set to kickoff in January and run until May.   Christchurch’s GM and First Team Coach Ryan Edwards joined Piney to discuss the importance of this for football in the South Island.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The biggest test of the year is fast approaching.   The All Blacks are set to put their 30-year unbeaten at Eden Park record on the line as they host the Springboks.  Former Springbok Breyton Paulse joined Piney to discuss the first rounds of the Rugby Championship, and what we can expect from next week’s clash.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The New Zealand Warriors are keen to move on from last night's controversial no-try ruling from the NRL Bunker that ended any hopes of a comeback win at the death.  Adam Pompey's late try was ruled out for an apparent knock-on in the lead-up from Demetric Vaimauga, as the Parramatta Eels escaped Mt Smart with a 26-22 win.  Warriors boss Cameron George told Jason Pine he may issue a please-explain on Monday, but it's done now.  “We can jump up and down, I can reach out to the NRL, but it’s not going to bring back, y’know, that time.”  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen to the Weekend Sport with Jason Pine Full Show Podcast for Sunday 24 August. Get the Weekend Sport with Jason Pine Full Show Podcast every Saturday and Sunday afternoon on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

James McOnie from The Crowd Goes Wild joined Piney to discuss the All Blacks losing to Argentina, the Warriors' latest win and Waikato getting the Ranfurly Shield back. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US correspondent Leon Busby joined Piney to discuss NBA contracts, the ongoing MLB season and the start of the NFL season. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Waikato snatched the Ranfurly Shield from Taranaki with a thrilling 23-22 victory in their NPC game in New Plymouth. Former All Black Lima Sopoaga kicked a last minute penalty to steal the one-point win for the Mooloos. Sopoaga joined Piney to discuss the win. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Black Ferns are set to begin their Rugby World Cup campaign tomorrow afternoon, and there's excitement brewing. There's hope the Black Ferns could win their third straight World Cup in a row. Former Black Fern Kendra Cocksedge joined Piney to discuss. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Warriors have moved back into the NRL's Top 4 with a 32-18 win over the Titans following Rocco Berry's return from injury. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck scored a brace while 20-year-old Eddie Ieremia-Toeava scored a first NRL try in his third game. Warriors assistant coach Stacey Jones joined Piney to discuss. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Pumas have beaten the All Blacks for the very first time on home soil. Argentina emerged as 29-23 victors in their Rugby Championship clash in Buenos Aires. The Kiwi side were on the receiving end of multiple yellow cards and missed three crucial shots at goal. All Blacks assistant coach Jason Holland joined Piney to discuss. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Weekend Sport with Jason Pine Full Show Podcast for 23rd August 2025, NZ Rugby has committed to Sky for another five years. NZR Chair David Kirk and Sky TV's Head of Sport Gary Burchett joined the show to go over the deal.  Codie Taylor with become the 14th All Blacks centurion when he takes the field against Argentina this weekend. Two former teammates Wyatt Crockett and Matt Todd reflect on his journey.  And Lisa Alexander offers an Australian perspective on the wave of Kiwi Netballers heading to Australia.  Get the Weekend Sport with Jason Pine Full Show Podcast every Saturday and Sunday afternoon on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand netball is facing an exodus, with top players heading across to the Australian game.  No less than eight Silver Ferns have announced their departure, including Donnell Wallam, Ameliaranne Ekenasio, and Karin Burger.   Piney caught up with former Diamonds head coach Lisa Alexander to find out what the Aussies’ thoughts are on the Kiwis flooding their competition.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After their defeat to the All Blacks last week, Los Pumas are hoping for an improved performance in Buenos Aires.  The Argentinian team has never beaten the All Blacks on home shores, with the New Zealand side winning 14 tests and drawing on one.  ESPN Argentina Commentator Zuca Conti joined Piney to discuss whether Los Pumas can flip the form guide and pull off an elusive home win.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A 14th member of the All Blacks' 100 club.  Codie Taylor will join the test centurions group on Sunday morning against Argentina in Buenos Aires, the same side he debuted against in 2015.  Former teammates of Taylor, Wyatt Crockett and Matt Todd joined Piney to reflect on his journey to 100 tests.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sky have announced a renewed five-year broadcast partnership with New Zealand Rugby, starting this January.  The deal cements almost all men's and women's internationals.  However, the governing body reserve the right to play up to five offshore All Blacks and Black Ferns matches from outside the scheduled competitions, to support efforts to increase their revenue base.  Sky’s Head of Sport, Gary Burchett, joined Piney to discuss just what this means for the country’s largest sport TV provider.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand Rugby has committed to Sky for another five years.  Nearly every All Blacks match, including the 2029 Lions Tour, the new Nations Cup, and all matches in the Sanzaar countries will broadcast on Sky Sport.  TVNZ has also secured NPC rights, along with a few Farah Palmer Cup games, which will be broadcast free-to-air on TVNZ+.  However, the deal doesn't include five future All Blacks tests, yet to be named, which will be open to bidding when they are announced.  Chair of New Zealand Rugby David Kirk joined the show to discuss the ins and outs of the deal.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen to the Weekend Sport with Jason Pine Full Show Podcast for Sunday 17 August. Get the Weekend Sport with Jason Pine Full Show Podcast every Saturday and Sunday afternoon on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

James McOnie from The Crowd Goes Wild joined Piney to discuss All Blacks' win, the Wallabies' win and the English Premier League season. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Coaching expert Wayne Goldsmith recently wrote a new book, and he joined Piney to unpack its message further. The book examines the 'myth' surrounding talent, and reveals how it negatively impacts young athletes. Goldsmith joined Piney to discuss. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kiwi cyclist Sammie Maxwell has had a breakout 2025 season, and she's opened up about her results. She's proud of her recent races, especially her UCI Mountain Bike World Cup win. She joined Piney to discuss further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's signs Australian rugby is going from strength to strength. The Wallabies have upset the Springboks 38-22 in Johannesburg, after trailing 22-nil earlier in the contest. It's back-to-back wins for Australia after beating the British and Irish Lions in the third test in Sydney earlier this month. Rugby journalist Mark Keohane joined Piney to discuss. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The All Blacks have opened their Rugby Championship campaign with a 41-24 win over Argentina. New Zealand took a commanding 31-10 lead at halftime, before Los Pumas threatened an early second-half fightback to close the margin to 31-24. Former All Black and rugby commentator Frank Bunce says the team will be 'satisfied' by the win - despite some issues at the end. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The All Blacks have made a positive start to their Rugby Championship campaign, with a 41-24 victory over Argentina in Cordoba. New Zealand stunned the hosts with a four-try first half onslaught, to lead 31-10 at the break. Los Pumas came back with two tries in the second half to close the gap to seven, before a double to hooker Samisoni Taukeiaho snuffed out a fight back. All Blacks assistant coach Scott Hansen says their ultimate goal was to get the job done. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sail GP hits Germany this weekend for the 8th event of the 12-event season.  The Black Foils are top of the leaderboard for the first time since January after victory in the last regatta in Portsmouth.  Flight controller Leo Takahashi joined Piney for a chat ahead of this weekend’s regatta.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Tall Blacks have survived a stern examination of their Asia Cup basketball title ambitions to beat Lebanon 90-86 for a place in the semi-finals.  New Zealand's come back from a 20-point deficit at quarter time and will now play China in the last four.  Point Guard Taylor Britt joined Piney ahead of their big match against China.   LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Wallabies kick off their Rugby Championship in a daunting fashion.  They’re facing the Springboks at Ellis Park, seeking their first win in Johannesburg since 1963.  Our Australian Correspondent Adam Peacock joins Piney to describe the optimism levels (or lack thereof) ahead of the clash.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Weekend Sport with Jason Pine Full Show Podcast for 16th August 2025, the Warriors have snapped their losing streak and find themselves back in the NRL's top 4 after a scratchy win over the Dragons. Assistant coach Richard Agar joined Piney to discuss their relief in finally getting a win.  Argentina rugby legend Hugo Porta reflects on his career as Los Pumas host the All Blacks Sunday morning.  Plus, plenty more including NZ Darts Masters, English Premier League, Heartland Championship Rugby, and FIBA's Asia Cup.  Get the Weekend Sport with Jason Pine Full Show Podcast every Saturday and Sunday afternoon on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The New Zealand Darts Masters is underway, defending champion Luke Humphries beginning his title defence.   One of darts’ icons, Russ Bray is on our shores for the competition.   He joined Piney to discuss his legendary career as a darts referee and the rise of Luke Littler through the ranks.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The new English Premier League season is underway – Liverpool kicking off their defence with a 4-2 win over Bournemouth.  It was an emotional night, the team paying tribute to Diogo Jota, who tragically died last month.   Expert football analyst Dominic Fifield joined Piney to preview the new season of the EPL and offer his thoughts on Liverpool’s odds of defending their title.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Heartland Championship Rugby kicks off today in Waihi, with a rematch of last year’s Meads Cup Final – Thames Valley clashing with Mid Canterbury.  Thames Valley CEO Scott Penney joined the show ahead of kick-off to chat with Piney about the impact of winning last year’s competition on the province, and their plans to defend the title.   “We've done a lot in our community to boost numbers and grow rugby within the valleys, but to have the icing on the cake and bring the Meads Cup home was fantastic for everybody involved."  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Delivering away from home under pressure is the focus for the All Blacks, as they face their first road assignment of 2025.  On the other hand, the Argentinian team is eager to claim victory over the boys in black at home.  Hugo Porta was one of the great Argentinian players, having kicked 21 points in a 21-all draw against the New Zealand side in 1985 – the Los Pumas’ best result at the time.  He joined Piney to reflect on his time playing and delve into what he hopes to see from Argentina tomorrow morning.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Warriors have regained their place in the NRL's top four with a thrilling 14-10 comeback victory over a brave Dragons outfit in Auckland.  The Warriors recovered from a 10-point deficit to snap a three-game losing streak after the visitors lost three forwards before halftime due to concussion.  Assistant Coach Richard Agar joined Piney for a chat about how pleasing it is to snap their losing streak.   “I thought we came off the ropes, y’know, pretty well in what were a tight and very tough game.”  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

James McOnie from The Crowd Goes Wild joined Piney to discuss the Black Ferns' upcoming matches and the ongoing NPC season.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Tall Blacks are quarter-final bound at basketball's Asia Cup, after a commanding 118-78 win over Chinese Taipei in Jeddah. New Zealand led 49-35 at halftime, before outscoring their opponents 69-43 in the second half. Tall Blacks star Flynn Cameron joined Piney to discuss. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Black Ferns are set to begin their Rugby World Cup title defence and excitement is growing. Many of the newly-confirmed squad will be heading to their first World Cup match, including Sevens star Jorja Miller. She joined Piney to discuss further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen to the Weekend Sport with Jason Pine Full Show Podcast for Sunday 10 August. Get the Weekend Sport with Jason Pine Full Show Podcast every Saturday and Sunday afternoon on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time sailor of the year and iconic America’s Cup commentator Peter Lester has died aged 70.  Lester's sailing career saw him compete in three America’s Cup campaigns as a tactician.  He then became an expert voice on the sport from the mid-1990s and was part of the world feed team for last year's America’s Cup in Barcelona. Broadcaster PJ Montgomery joined Piney to pay tribute. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand Rugby boss Mark Robinson insists there's been no pushback from All Blacks coach Scott Robertson over the details of Richie Mo'unga's 18-month contract. On his return next July, the first five will have to play for the Canterbury NPC team first - as he won't be eligible for tests until October 2026. Mark Robinson joined Piney to discuss further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.